DiscoverThe Accidental Bird Dog PodcastThe Mental Side of Dog Handling
The Mental Side of Dog Handling

The Mental Side of Dog Handling

Update: 2025-11-19
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Do you feel nervous when handling your dog in competitions and events? Even after competing for 10 years, I still feel anxious every single time. 
 
In this episode, I dive into the mindset challenges that come with running your dog in tests and trials. I share my own experiences with negative self-talk, including moments when I nearly talked myself out of competing altogether. We explore what pre-performance anxiety feels like, why it's completely normal, and how to work through it so you can show up as the best handler for your dog. I also break down practical strategies—taking care of your physical needs, focusing on constructive thoughts, and setting layered goals—to make things a little easier the next time you handle your dog.
 
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The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is part of the HerUpland Podcast Network and sponsored by onX Hunt.
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The Mental Side of Dog Handling

The Mental Side of Dog Handling

Terry Ann Fernando